How Somatic and EMDR Therapy Create Real Change
What Research Reveals About Your Journey
When you’re thinking about starting therapy, one of the most natural questions is: Will this really help me? As a somatic and EMDR therapist in Oregon and Colorado, I hear this often. The encouraging news is that decades of research show therapy is effective — not only because of the techniques used, but because of the healing relationship that develops between therapist and client.
Whether you’re exploring somatic therapy for trauma and stress, or seeking EMDR therapy for PTSD and anxiety, studies confirm that the connection you build with your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of meaningful, lasting change.
Beyond Techniques: Why the Relationship Matters in Therapy
Many people assume therapy works based off of the tools or models a therapist uses (like CBT, IFS, DBT, psychodynamic, EMDR or somatic therapy, etc). While these approaches can be powerful, research shows that common factors, such as; the therapeutic relationship, trust, and your own expectations, actually account for much of why people get better (Cuijpers, Reijnders, & Huibers, 2019).
That means therapy isn’t just about “fixing” something with a tool, it’s about building a safe, supportive relationship where healing can unfold.
Somatic Therapy: Healing Through the Body
If you’ve ever felt stress, anxiety, or trauma “stuck” in your body, you’ve already noticed how much our nervous system impacts mental health. Somatic therapy focuses on nervous system regulation, body awareness, and releasing stored tension. Clients often describe feeling more grounded, calm, and connected after even a few sessions.
Somatic approaches are especially effective for trauma, burnout, and anxiety because they help regulate the body from the bottom up, not just by “talking it out” or trying to address our thoughts with thinking of thinking..
EMDR Therapy: Reprocessing Trauma for Relief
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based approach proven to reduce symptoms of trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. By helping the brain reprocess distressing memories, EMDR reduces their emotional intensity and allows clients to integrate them without the same overwhelm.
For many clients, EMDR therapy leads to noticeable relief faster than traditional talk therapy alone. It is especially helpful for trauma survivors, adult children of emotionally immature parents, and those struggling with long-standing stress patterns including anxiety and burn out.
What Your Therapy Journey Might Look Like
Every person’s path is unique, but research and experience point to some common stages of therapy:
Early Sessions (1–3): We get to know each other, clarify goals, and begin building trust.
Middle Phase: You start noticing patterns, gaining insight, and practicing new ways of responding. This is where somatic and EMDR tools often make a big difference.
Rupture and Repair: If there are misunderstandings, we address them openly. Research shows this strengthens the relationship.
Later Sessions: We consolidate insights, strengthen skills, and plan for maintaining change.
Research suggests that many clients notice relief within 8–12 sessions, with deeper transformations emerging over several months (Cuijpers et al., 2019).
How Long Does Therapy Take?
While everyone’s journey is different (as well as the modality used):
Many clients begin feeling relief within the first 6–8 sessions.
Sustained improvement often occurs around 3–6 months of consistent therapy.
Complex trauma or long-term stress may require a longer journey and healing isn’t linear. Progress happens in layers, not all at once.
The most important factor isn’t the number of sessions, it’s the fit between you and your therapist and your willingness to engage in the process.
Getting the Most Out of Somatic and EMDR Therapy
Because therapy is an active process, here are ways to support your own growth:
Be open about your expectations. If something doesn’t feel right, please let your therapist know so there can be adjustments.
Stay consistent. Weekly sessions create momentum and allow your nervous system to rewire more effectively.
Apply insights between sessions. Somatic practices and EMDR insights become more powerful when integrated into daily life.
Track your progress. Notice what shifts , even small changes matter.
How I Work With Clients in Oregon and Colorado
In my practice, I combine somatic therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and other Integrative Holistic approaches to help clients reduce stress, process trauma, and feel more grounded. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, or trauma recovery, I bring both evidence-based techniques and compassionate support.
Together, we’ll create a plan that fits your needs; blending tools for nervous system regulation, EMDR processing, and supportive conversation so you can experience change in both mind and body.
Final Thoughts: Taking the Next Step
The research is clear: therapy works, not only because of techniques like EMDR or somatic practices, but because of the unique, healing relationship between therapist and client. If you’re ready to begin your own journey, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
I currently see clients for online therapy in Oregon and Colorado. If you’re curious whether somatic or EMDR therapy is right for you, reach out today.
👉 Schedule a free consultation (click here)
References
Cuijpers, P., Reijnders, M., & Huibers, M. J. (2019). The role of common factors in psychotherapy outcomes. Psychotherapy Research, 29(1), 51–60. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2019.1566676
Anderson, T., Crowley, M. E., Himawan, L., Holmberg, J. K., & Uhlin, B. D. (2015). Therapist facilitative interpersonal skills and therapy outcomes: A randomized clinical trial of training methods. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 83(3), 460–472. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0038624
